Calgary's Naheed Nenshi becomes Canada's first Muslim mayor

Nenshi achieved a staggering win in Calgary's mayor's race Monday by defeating two better-funded candidates, including one backed by Stephen Harper's campaign team.

According to the Globe and Mail, Nenshi's campaign was austere and he delivered his speech in a basement that was donated by a supporter at the last second.

Nenshi, 38, survived a smear campaign and a telephone failure in the crucial final days and hours, before running away with what was to be a close vote.

His candidacy was branded the "Purple Revolution," named for his campaign colour and driven by a broad demographic that included strong youth support.

He achieved what many observers thought impossible - a wonkish, even dorky, academic and visible minority elected to the helm of what is often called Canada's most conservative city after a campaign driven by charisma and sheer determination.

"Today Calgary is a different place than it was yesterday. A better place," Nenshi said in a speech to his supporters. (ANI)